At the start of the new season, it’s time to put the spotlight on the Clapton CFC Men’s First Team backroom staff.

The Manager is of course Geoff Ocran, who has been in the hotseat since the club was formed in the summer 2018. It’s Geoff’s first managerial role, but he’s masterminded two promotions and two cups.

Our Assistant Manager is Sham Darr, who joined the coaching team a few months later in 2018 in our debut season. Sham had previously managed and coached at London Apsa, Ilford and Wadham Lodge.

Geoff and Sham are both still registered as players, aged 39 and 38 respectively, so you may see them back on the field in an injury crisis.

Ridhwaan Yusuf, more commonly known as Coach Ruudy, is our Head Coach. Ruudy joined us last season after our promotion to Step 6, having previously been first team coach for both Billericay Town’s men’s and women’s teams and manager of Harlow Town Ladies., He is also the founder and head coach of R77 Academy.

We have two First Team Coach roles, filled by Jack Mellors and Matt Bailey. Both have been on the coaching team for several seasons through our rise up the leagues.

The Physiotherapist for a second season is Kasita Boateng while Aaqib Hafeji also continues as Data Analyst.